Vladimir(Владимир) is the capital and the largest city of Vladimir Oblast. The city is one of the most visited destinations within the popular Golden Ring circuit, as it preserves several of the finest monuments of white-stone medieval architecture in Russia, along with a number of later buildings from the 16th–20th centuries.

Vladimir is in the central part of the Eastern-European plain, on a steep hill beside the Klyazma River. The land to the north from the city is known as Vladimir Fields (Владимирское Ополье), while the land to the south is mainly covered by forests.

Vladimir is somewhat elongated along the river that forms its southern boundary. From the north, the city is bounded by a "semi-circle" road, formerly a part of the M7 highway. Inside the city, small rivers flow into the Klyazma and form deep valleys that were originally used as fortifications.

The inner layout of Vladimir is fairly simple. The main street runs roughly from west to east close to the Klyazma River and passes through the historical centre. Different parts of this street have different names: Московское шоссе (entry from Moscow) – проспект Ленина – улица Студёная гора – Дворянская улица – Большая Московская улица – Большая Нижегородская улица – Добросельская улица (entry from Nizhny Novgorod). Several major streets branch off to the north, cross the "semi-circle" road and turn into the roads towards Suzdal and Ivanovo (Суздальское шоссе) or Yuryev-Polsky (улица Горького). A single street (Муромское шоссе) also runs to the south, crosses the river and continues towards Sudogda, Murom, and Gus-Khrustalnyi.

The main sights, along with a number of hotels and restaurants, are found in the historical centre, close to Bolshaya Moskovskaya Ulitsa (Большая Московская улица). If you arrive to Vladimir from Moscow, you enter this part of the city at the Golden Gate. Moving further to the east, one leaves the historical centre after passing the Nativity Monastery and the Hotel Vladimir. The Cathedral Square (Соборная площадь) is in the middle of this way. The train and bus stations are found to the east from the historical centre, at the bottom of the hill.

Vladimir was founded in 1108 by Vladimir Monomakh. There is an alternative version that ascribes the foundation of the city to Vladimir the Red Sun in 990. Yet the exact year does not seem to be very important for the average traveler, since the oldest existing monuments date back only to the middle of 12th century. At that period, the city was rapidly developing due to the activity of Prince Andrey Bogolyubsky who established the capital of North-Eastern Russia in Vladimir. The city's period of greatest importance was probably in the late 12th and early 13th century, up to the Mongol invasion. Several of Russia's greatest architectural monuments were built in Vladimir during that time, including Assumption Cathedral and the Golden Gates, both of which are World Heritage Sites.

In 1238, Vladimir was besieged and taken by the Mongol hordes under Batu Khan. The city never recovered fully. Though it remained the pricipality's capital for a century, Vladimir gradually lost its political and cultural significance to Moscow. Untill the middle of 15th century, Vladimir was the official capital of North-Eastern Russia, but the actual government worked in Moscow. The transfer of the capital was completed in 15th century: the Assumption Cathedral in the Moscow Kremlin, modeled after one of the oldest cathedrals in Vladimir, became the state church. The holy icon of Our Lady of Vladimir was also moved to Moscow.

Vladimir continued to be a provincial capital. It gradually grew in size due to its advantageous loocation in the middle of Central Russia. The development of the city was enhanced by the construction of the Moscow – Nizhny Novgorod railroad in the late 19th century. Presently, Vladimir is a partially industrialized city, although the historical centre remains almost untouched since the beginning of 20th century. In 1992, Vladimir was included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO.

Vladimir Semyazino airport does not have regular passenger communication. Nearest airports are located in Moscow and Nizhny Novgorod, both receive international flights. From there, you can easily reach Vladimir by train, by bus, or by car.

All the trains arrive to Vladimir main station located next to the central bus station and close to the historical centre. Basically, there are two options for getting in by train:

From Moscow: take a local train (elektrichka) or a long-distance train. Local trains depart from Kursky Station and run 3 times per day. The trip takes about 3 h. Long-distance trains depart from different stations (Kursky Station, Yaroslavsky Station, or Kazansky Station) so check your ticket in advance. There are 6 or 7 long-distance trains that operate on convenient daytime schedule, and about 10 trains arrive to Vladimir during the night.

The best option is to use a special express-train Moscow-Vladimir that leaves Moscow (Kursky Station) daily at 18:00 and starts back from Vladimir at 7:30. The trip takes 2.5 h. Note that the express train is considered as a long-distance one, so the number of tickets is limited.

Additionally, you have to buy the tickets at the proper cash desk and to present ID for every ticket (see Russia:Get around for details). Adventurous travellers may also use an indirect connection with the change in Petushki. This station has an hourly service of local trains to Moscow, while local trains between Vladimir and Petushki run 3 times per day. Basically, such a connection is quite long (the whole trip from Moscow to Vladimir takes 3.5-4 h), but it may be helpful in case you miss other trains, and the buses are overcrowded.

Maybe the most convenient, but also the most expensive way is to take a high-speed train "Sapsan", which also connects Moscow with Saint-Petersburg. It takes just about 1:45 to get to Vladimir.

From Nizhny Novgorod: all the trains to Vladimir depart from the main railway station of Nizhny Novgorod (Gorky Moscovsky). There is a direct express train, starting from Nizhny Novgorod at 16:10 and going back from Vladimir at 7:00. Formally, this train is local, but it makes few stops, and the trip takes only 3.5 h. From five to ten long-distance trains offer convenient schedule for getting in Vladimir during the day, and there are more trains during the night. Again, adventurous travellers may try indirect connections with changes in Kovrov, Vyazniki, or Gorokhovets. However, this is not recommended (the trip takes at least 7 h) unless you are going to visit other places along the way.

The above mentioned express trains are certainly an option but can be quit uncomfortable for longer rides, especially if they are fully booked as seats are quite small. If spending a bit more money is an option, use the "firmenny" train Moscow - Nizhny Novgorod that has seating cars (not beds, like most Russian long distance trains). There are two trains per direction per day. Tickets are around 500 rubles per direction. Comfort in normal seating class is comparable with first class in Western Europe. Tickets can be bought two months in advance on the Russian Railways website (in Russian only).

You can also consider trains while planning a trip from towns located along the Moscow - Nizhny Novgorod railway (such as Pokrov, Kovrov, Vyazniki, Gorokhovets) to Vladimir. Otherwise, it is advisable to use buses, since local railway lines are slow and rather indirect.

Central bus station is located next to the railway station, close to the historical centre. This station operates bus routes to every town in Vladimir Oblast as well as many intercity routes (to Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, Ivanovo, Ryazan, etc.) Normally, you have to buy tickets inside the station. The square near the central bus station is a hub of private bus routes that are usually operated by minibuses. Such routes do not have a strict schedule and depart as soon as the minibus is filled up. You should pay directly to the driver or to a special person who collects money near the bus. The private routes serve Moscow, Murom, Gus-Khrustalny, and Ivanovo (via Suzdal). The last bus to Moscow departs at around 20.00.

Local bus station is located near the Central Market (take trolleybus #10 from the central bus station). This station serves a number of very local bus routes to nearby villages. You are unlikely to use it.

Basic options of travelling to Vladimir by bus are as follows:

From Moscow: "official" buses depart from the central (intercity) bus station located at Shelkovskaya metro station. There are at least ten buses per day, either running between Moscow and Vladimir or heading for further destinations (Kovrov, Ivanovo, Gus-Khrustalny, Murom, Vyazniki). Basically, it is more convenient to use private buses that depart from the square near Kursky railway station. Such buses leave every 30 minutes or even more often. The trip takes at least 3 hours, the price is about 220 rubles. Expect a longer trip during the weekdays (especially in the evening due to traffic problems near Moscow) and long queues for the buses during rush hours (like Friday and Sunday evenings).

From Nizhny Novgorod: buses to Vladimir depart from Kanavino bus station. There are 8-10 buses per day (either to Moscow or Vladimir), and the trip takes about 5 hours.

From other places: you will find at least 2 or 3 daily buses to Vladimir from any town of Vladimir region and from central cities of neighboring regions. The most frequent connections (every 1-1.5 hours) run from Suzdal, Murom, Gus-Khrustalny, and Ivanovo (via Suzdal).

Vladimir is easibly reachable from Moscow (180 km along the M7 road), Nizhny Novgorod (240 km along the M7 road), Ivanovo (115 km along the A113 road), and Ryazan (230 km along the R123 and R73 roads, via Tuma and Gus-Khrustalny). In the city, you will find a lot of space for free parking on side streets and several parking areas on the main street (Bolshaya Moscovskaya) as well.

The historical centre is easily and conveniently explored by foot, so the regular traveller is unlikely to use the public transport in Vladimir. Still, there is an extensive network of trolleybuses, buses, and minibuses (marshrutki), serving the whole city.

Bus network is well-developed in Vladimir, covering each and every important district and the city suburbs. In 2014 the fare is 16 RUB per one trip regardless of the distance. For this money you can have a nice observation excursion on 28 circular route or reach Bogolyubovo by buses No. 3с, 18с, 53 or 152. Normally, as everywhere in provincial Russia, you have to pay to the driver or to a special lady (konduktor) who sits in the bus collecting money and issuing tickets. Note that normally the bus personnel is only Russian-speaking.

Trolleybus network is developed a bit less than the bus one. Nevertheless it covers most of important parts of the city, and as of 2014 the fare is a bit lower than by bus (15 RUB). Note that like in all other Russian cities routes of trolleybuses and buses with the same numbers differ (in Vladimir there is only one exception: circular route No. 8 that is the same by both trolley and marshrutka).

The most useful option is the trolleybus #5 that connects the train station to the historical centre and runs along Bolshaya Moscovksaya Ulitsa.

These monuments are recognized by UNESCO and included in the World Heritage List. They are essential tourist destinations in Vladimir.

Cathedral of the Assumption

Cathedral of the Assumption (Успенскийсобор), Соборная площадь (Cathedral Square), [1]. It is one of the most historically important Russian Orthodox Churches. For a short period in the 14th century, the cathedral was the seat of the Metropolitan, the leader of the Russian Ortodox Chuch. Originally, the cathedral was built in 1158 and had only one dome. However, the major reconstruction followed already in 1185: four smaller domes were added, and the building was considerably enlarged in order to resemble St. Sophia's Cathedral in Kiev. Later on, a similar project was utilized for the cathedral of the Assumption in Moscow Kremlin. The neghboring bell tower of eclectic style was built in 1810 to replace the former hip-roof tower. The interior of the cathedral includes a number of ancient frescos from late 12th century (northern wall) and 15th century (vaults), the latter being painted by Andrei Rublev and Daniil Chyorny. Presently, the cathedral combines church and museum activities. Services are normally held in the morning and offer free entrance. During the opening hours of the museum [2] (Tue-Sun, 13.00-16.30), the tickets are sold.edit

Cathedral of St. Demetrius (Дмитриевскийсобор), Соборная площадь, [3]. This is the other ancient cathedral of Vladimir. The buliding was constructed in 1194-97 as an in-house church of the Prince's court. Originally, galleries linked the cathedral to the palace, but they were removed during the reconstruction in 19th century. At present, St. Demetrius' Cathedral is a detached church, a unique monument of ancient Russian architecture. The bottom part of the walls is flat (here the galleries were attached), while the upper part is covered by fine stone carvings. These carvings depict stories from the life of King David and praise the harmony of the world. Yet the meaning of some carvings remains unknown. The cathedral hosts a small museum that presents enlarged images and detailed explanations for a number of carvings as well as a small piece of original frescos from late 12th century. The museum [4] is open Wed-Mon, from 11 till 17 or 18. Don't forget to have a look from the nearby viewpoint!edit

Golden Gate

Golden Gate (Золотыеворота), Большая Московская ул. (west from the Cathedral square), [5]. Once the entrance to the walled city, the gate was originally built in 1158-64. At that time, the city was surrounded by a rampart with five stone gates. The Golden Gate is the only remaining part of the complex and the unique monument of ancient fortifications in Russia. The ramparts were removed in 19th century, and the gate was reinforced by four circular bastions at the buttresses. These bastions strongly changed the appearance of the gate, so it may be advisable to see the picture of the original building like in a museum of military history inside the gate. The remaining part of the rampart is found south from the gate, along the Kozlov Rampart Street (ул. Козлов вал).edit

There are lots of churches in Vladimir, and one is unlikely to visit all of them. The following list includes several representative examples from various styles.

Nativity Monastery (Рождественскиймонастырь), Большая Московская ул. 68 (east from the Cathedral square). The monastery was founded in the end of 12th century and played important role for Russian Orthodox Church during the Middle Ages. None of the ancient buildings survived, but it is worth to see the stone walls and towers from 18th century. Though there was no real threat to Vladimir at that time, the walls imitate fortifications of ancient Russian monasteries. You will also find a church and several living houses with fine decorations from 17th century. Presently, the monastery is a home to the bishop of Vladimir region.edit

Cathedral of the Assumption (Princess Convent) (УспенскийсоборКнягининамонастыря), Княгининская ул. (north from the Trading Rows). The history of the Princess Convent is traced back to 12th century. The central building, the Cathedral of the Assumption, was originally built in the beginning of the 13th century. In 16th century, the cathedral was rebuilt in its present shape (known as "Moscow style" of church architecture). You can see numerous kokoshniki below the dome and compare this type of decoration with the ancient one from St. Demetrius' Cathedral. Note fine frescos from 17th century inside the Cathedral. edit

Church of the Assumption of our Lady (Богородице-Успенскаяцерковь), Большая Московская ул. 106а (east from the historical centre). This church from 17th century (built in 1644-49) presents another example of original russian architecture. Apart from kokoshniki, you will find a hip-roof bell tower, a typical feature of the 17th century-style. edit

Church of St. Nikita (Никитскаяцерковь), Княгининская ул., 8 (next to the Princess Convent). This church was built in baroque style in the middle of 18th century. Bright green color and huge building sharply contrast to the harmony of the ancient white-stone cathedrals. Still, the decoration of the church is remarkable. At present, the church is not functioning and houses a restoration workshop.edit

Church of St. George (Георгиевскаяцерковь), Георгиевская ул., 6 (cross Bolshaya Moscovskaya st. near the Trading Rows and head south). Another example of baroque-style architecture. This church is rather small and looks modest as compared to the Church of St. Nikita. The nice appearance is supplied by the neighboring hip-roof bell tower. For a long time, the Church of St. George housed a concert hall, but now it should start regular services.edit

Church of St. Michael the Archangel (Михаило-Архангельскаяцерковь), ул. Студёная гора, 1a (west from the Golden Gate). This impressive dark-red church was built in the end of 19th century in neo-Byzantine style. It is probably one of the best (or, at least, most harmonious) representatives of this style in Russia.edit

Church of St. Trinity (Троицкаяцерковь), Дворянская ул., 2 (next to the Golden Gate). The red-brick church of eclectic style (with an emphasis on russian revival, though) from 1913-1916. Presently, it houses a museum of crystal, miniature paintings, and embroidery.edit

Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (Костёлсв. РозарияПречистойДевыМарии), ул. Гоголя, 12в (south from the Golden Gate). This catholic church from late 19th century is a rare example of neo-gothic building in Vladimir region. The church was constructed for Polish-Lithuanian troop that stayed in Vladimir. At present, the church works under the supervision of Roman Catholic church. This lovely place is worth a visit, especially during catholic holidays.edit

Since 18th century, Vladimir is a provincial city, so its secular buildings are rather small and modest. Do not expect to see any masterpieces. Still, it is possible to find a number of nice buildings from different periods and styles.

House of the Assembly of Nobility (Дворянскоесобрание), Большая Московская ул., 33 (next to the Cathedral Square). This building in the empire style from early 19th century has once been a cultural centre of Vladimir.edit

Trading Rows (Торговыеряды), Большая Московская ул., 19 (between the Cathedral square and the Golden Gate). A very typical building for russian architecture of late 18th – early 19th century. The Trading Rows in Vladimir follow the general classicism style with an original project from late 18th century, although the present appearance of the building is heavily disrupted by the signboards and advertisements.edit

Old drugstore (Стараяаптека), Георгиевская ул., 3 (close to the Trading Rows and the Church of St. George). A small lovely building from late 18th century.edit

City Bank (Городскойбанк), Большая Московская ул., 29 (next to the Cathedral square). The red-and-white neoclassical building from 1896.edit

City Museum (Городскоймузей), Большая Московская ул., 64 (east from the Cathedral square). This red-brick building of russian-revival (pseudo-russian) style is now a home to the history museum.edit

Water tower (Водонапорнаябашня), ул. Козлов вал (south from the Golden Gate). The pseudo-russian style water tower is likely one of the most impressive and unusual secular buildings in Vladimir. It was constructed in 1868 as a part of the first water-supply system and re-built in 1912. Presently, the tower houses an exhibition on the history of Vladimir.edit

House of the Temperance Association (Народныйдомобществатрезвости), ул. Гагарина, 7 (south from the Trading Rows). A very unusual mix of neoclassical and art nouveau styles. In the beginning of 20th century, this house was one of the cultural centres of Vladimir.edit

Building College (Строительныйколледж), ул. Дзержинского, 6 (west from the Golden Gate). A rare example of the building from Stalin's Empire style in Vladimir. The project is rather regular and dates back to 1950, although a small tower is certainly an unusual feature that originates from art nouveau or russian-revival fashion.edit

The two important museums of Vladimir are the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Cathedral of St. Demetrius that exhibit ancient frescos (see the "Must-see list" above). You can also visit other museums:

Regional history museum (Областнойисторическиймузей), Большая Московская ул., 64 (west from the Cathedral Square), [6]. W–Mo, 10.00–16.00 or 17.00. The museum covers the history of Vladimir region from the very beginning (Stone age) till the February Revolution of 1917. During the Middle Ages, the history of the region was tightly bound to the history of Russia itself, so one can find a lot of information on the Vladimir principality and the development of north-eastern Russia prior to the Mongol invasion and along the period of the Mongol yoke. edit

Military museum (музейвоинскойдоблести), (inside the Golden Gate), [7]. F–W, 10.00–18.00. The museum presents a number of old weapons and a huge gallery of military leaders, originating from Vladimir region. The best exhibit is a special diorama that depicts the assault of Vladimir by Batu Khan in 1238. The diorama gives an idea how the the ancient city looked like.edit

Exhibition "Old Vladimir" (экспозиция "СтарыйВладимир"), ул. Козлов вал (inside the water tower, south from the Golden Gate), [8]. Tu–Su, 10.00–18.00. The museum reconstructs the routine life and the atmosphere of Vladimir from late 19th century. The exhibition is more or less generic for any provincial russian town from this period. Don't miss the observation platform on the top of the tower!edit

Museum of crystal, lacquered miniature painiting, and embroidery (экспозиция "Хрусталь. Вышивка. Лаковаяминиатюра"), Дворянская ул., 2 (inside the Church of St. Trinity, next to the Golden Gate), [9]. W–Mo, 11–19. The collection of exhibits from different crafts that were traditionally developed in Vladimir region. Magnificent crystalware are manufactured in Gus-Hrustalnyi and neighboring towns. The miniature paintings are hand-made articles from Mstyora, a small settlement near Vyazniki, while embroidery is a traditional handicraft of the whole region. If you do not plan a trip to the destinations specified above, visiting this museum may be a good option. There is a shop of crystalware as well.edit

Art gallery, Большая Московская ул., 58 (Cathedral square, a long building between the ancient cathedrals), [10]. Tu–Su 10.00–16.00 or 17.00. The regular provincial art gallery with a collection of Russian fine art. The building also houses the so-called Children's Museum Centre. The centre presents a number of fascinating historical exhibitions that were specially designed for young people.edit

Memorial house of Stoletov family (Дом-музейСтолетовых), ул. Столетовых, 3 (eastern part of the historical centre), [11]. F–W, 10.00–16.00 or 17.00. The museum reconstructs a typical merchant house from 19th century. Stoletov family is well-known in Russia: Nilokay Stoletov was a military leader, while his brother, Alexander Stoletov, was a famous physicist. The exhibition occupies a wing of the house that originally belonged to the family.edit

Museum of S.D. Vasilisin (МузейС.Д. Василисина), ул. Завадского, 7 (western part of the city), [12]. School museum of Sergey Vasilisin, a national hero who took part in battles near Murmansk during World War II.edit

Monument of the 850-th anniversary, Соборная площадь (Cathedral square). This amusing monument was laid on 1958 (the 850-th anniversary of Vladimir) and completed in 1969. It is a typical example of the "Soviet realism" style. The monument shows three aspects of Vladimir's history (or three faces of the city): a warrior with a sword, an architect with a design, and a worker with a tractor. All together they look quite funny. Don't miss this monument!edit

Traditional Russian souvenirs can be found right on the street next to the Golden Gate. It is also possible to find icons and other authentic gifts in the nearby St. Demetrius' Cathedral. Don't miss the shop of local crystalware in the church of St. Trinity.

Vladimir has several shopping centres and lots of smaller shops that offer a great variety of food, drinks, clothes, etc.

Trading Rows (Торговыеряды), Большая Московская ул., 19a (betwenn the Cathedral square and the Golden Gate), ☎(4922)45-16-37, 45-16-42, [15]. daily, 10-22. This is a huge mall in the very centre of the city. Here, you will find a number of small shops, boutiques, services as well as a food court (upper floor)edit

Supermarket Valentina (ЦУМВалентина), Дворянская ул., 10 (next to the Golden Gate and the church of St. Trinity), ☎(4922)42-02-02, [16]. Mon-Sat, 9-21; Sun, 10-20. Another mall located in the city centre. This shopping centre is less luxurious as compared to the Trading Rows and houses lots of useful services, including a huge food supermarket (ground floor) and a small food court (upper floor)edit

Globus (Глобус or Гиперглобус), Suzdalsky prospect, 28 (NE part of the city, directly connected with almost all other parts by buses No. 3с, 7с, 10, 11, 14, 22 and 24), ☎(4922)37-68-66. Mon-Sat, 7 a.m.- 1 a.m.. One of the huge malls of this German mall network famous all over Europe. Sells a lot of stuff starting with food and ending with household equipment. Domestic-manufactured meat products and baked goods are great.edit

McDonald's (Макдоналдс), Гагарина ул. 2б (intersection of Gagarin and Bol'shaya Moskovskaya streets), ☎+7(4922)45-15-46, [17]. 7.00—24.00. Typical McDonalds with standard menu. It's rather large and occupies two storeys of "Vladimir" mall. In summertime outdoor tables are available. Credit cards are welcome and there is free WiFi available with good connection quality on both floors. The building is located in pedestrian area, so there is no McAuto drive-through service there.200—400 RUB for a typical set (sandwich, potatoes and drink). edit

Blinchiki (Блинчики), Большая Московская ул. 32 (across the street from the Trading Rows). This small cafe preserves soviet and pretty much fast-food style. However, the menu is rather diverse. The pancakes are very tasty and will certainly satisfy your hunger.edit

Food court of the Trading Rows, Большая Московская ул., 19a. The food court (upper floor of the mall) houses a number of national and international fast-food stands: Sbarro, Baskin Robbins, Kebab-tun, Tashir-pizza, etc. edit

Supermarket Valentina (ЦУМВалентина), Дворянская ул., 10. The food court on the upper floor includes several fast-food brands (Tashir-pizza, Mister Hamburger, Vo-Blin, etc.) that work all day long. On the ground floor, there is a very budget dining hall with more adequate food (open Mon-Fri, 11.30-15.30).edit

Coffee house Na Chekhova (кофейняНаЧехова), Большая Московская ул., 67 / ул. Чехова, 2 (eastern part of the historical centre). This is a regular restaurant rather than a small coffee house despite the name. The design is stylish, the choice is wide, and the food is excellent. If you are a gourmet, this coffee house is probably your choice in Vladimir, because you are unlikely to find more delicious and less trivial food in a city like this. Moreover, the prices are really encouraging.Main dishes: 200–350 rubles. edit

Sobornaya Square rock café (Рок-кафеСоборнаяплощадь), Большая Московская ул., 39 (left part of the street near a bus stop), ☎+7(4922)32-57-25. Although called a café, it is more a small cosy restaurant with quite delicious and diverse cuisine. There is a bar where you can order both all types of classical beverages and rich diversity of cocktails. Prices are quite moderate considering quality of dishes. Rock concerts and clips are played on the video most of the time and live performances of local rock bands are often held in the café.Main dishes: 500–600 rubles. edit

Beer is a notable local speciality in Vladimir. Formerly, Vladimir brewery was known for a variety of beer sorts. At present, the diversity is substantially reduced, because the brewery joined the brand of "live beer" Fifth Ocean (Пятый океан) – a wheat-free unfiltered beer with a special storage technology that allows to keep fresh unfiltered beer for rather long time. This beer is produced in several breweries and distributed all round the country. In Vladimir, it can be found in SPAR supermarkets. Additionally, there are few sorts of filtered lager beer produced under the general brand Vladimirskoe (Владимирское). The latter is not very special, but it is local and may be thus expected to be fresh.

Vladalko (Владалко) distillery produces several sorts of classical Russian vodka. All of them can be found everywhere in city shops and bars. About a half of vodka assortment is produced using very highly refined "Alpha" spirit, thus containing almost no admixtures. One of the best vodkas produced there is "Suzdal'skaya premium" (Суздальская премиум).

Additionally the distillery produces a variety of liqueurs. Certainly worth tasting and being taken home to treat your friends is "Glukharinaya Zaria" (Глухариная заря) 40% strong liqueur.

Golden ring (Золотоекольцо), ул. Чайковского, 27 (north-west from the historical centre), [19]. A huge complex including a number of bars, a casino, a nightclub, bowling, billiard, and a strip club.edit

Hostel Everest (Эверестхостел), ул. Большая Московская, 88 (370 meters from trainstation, on central street of the city. To find hostel you have to go to Bolshaya Moskovskaya str. 88 to the inner corner of the house and press 26 on intercom (doorphone)), ☎+7-900-587-37-77 (89005873777@mail.ru), [22]. New Good hostel in the city centre, Family Room, 6 beds mixed dorm, self-service kitchen. Free Wi-Fi.From 500 rubles. edit

Cosiness (Уют), ул. Горького, 52 (north from the historical centre, take trolleybuses 2 or 8 from the Golden Gate or #10 from the train station), ☎+7-(4922)-43-21-52. Hostel-type accommodation (former dormitory) with an inconvenient and hard-to-find location. Bathrooms are shared, and shower is additionally charged.edit

Dawn (Заря), ул. Студёная гора, 36а (west from the Golden Gate), ☎+7-(4922)-32-14-41, [24]. Soviet-style accommodation close to the historical centre. All the rooms are equipped with WC and toilet. The "renovation" implies the renewal of the furniture, but the rooms do not look modern anyway (suites are better though). Breakfast is served in the cafe inside the hotel and may be included in the price depending on the room quality. The hotel does not have its own parking, but there is a toll guarded parking nearby.Double room (non-renovated/renovated): 1100–1200/1600–1800 rubles. edit

Hotel of the Academy of public service (гостиницаприРАГС), ул. Горького, 59а (north from the historical centre, take trolleybuses #2,8 from the Golden Gate or #10 from the train station), ☎+7-(4922)-23-22-27. Soviet-style accommodation far from the historical centre. Private bathrooms, poor renovation (if any), no breakfast, no parking.Double room: 1100 rubles. edit

Vladimir (Владимир), Большая Московская ул., 74 (east from the Cathedral square), ☎+7-(4922)-32-44-47, 32-30-42, 32-27-01 (gtk-vladimir@mail.ru), [27]. A nice hotel in the heart of the city. The rooms are freshly renovated and fully equipped. Breakfast is included, while parking is additionally charged. There is a restaurant in the ground floor. Laundry and tourist information are also available.Double room: from 2500 rubles; quadruple room: 2900. edit

Golden Ring (Золотоекольцо), ул. Чайковского, 27 (very far from the historical centre, take trolleybus 8 from the Golden Gate of #10 from the train station), ☎reservation: +7-(4922)-400-800, +7-(495)-975-75-34; reception: +7-(4922)-24-88-07 (goldring@amaks-hotels.ru), [28]. A huge complex, including the hotel and entertainments (bars, disco, casino, etc). The location is very inconvenient and suits for organized tours rather than for individual travellers. The rooms are equipped with all the basic facilities, but the quality is average (suites are more attractive, as usual). Breakfast is included. Guarded parking is available for extra price. Additional services (laundry, internet, sport hall) are also available.edit

Orion (Орион-отель), 2-я Никольская ул., 3 (north from the Golden Gate, close to the historical centre), ☎+7-(4922)42-00-02, [29]. A nice mini-hotel in the centre of Vladimir. All the rooms are modern and fully equipped, breakfast is included. Additional services (guarded parking, internet in the lobby) are charged. There is a cafe as well.Double room: from 2600 rubles. edit

Russian Village (Русскаядеревня), Московское шоссе, 5а (western part of the city, very far from the historical area: take trolleybuses #1,5,15 from the Golden Gate), ☎+7-(4922)-38-36-90. Three wooden cottages conveniently located in the outskirts of Vladimir, close to the entry from Moscow. A tavern and a restaurant are attached to the hotel. Rooms are fully equipped. Breakfast is not included, guarded parking available.Double room: about 2000 rubles. edit

Erlangen House (гостевыекомнатыЭрлангенскогодома), Большая Нижегородская ул., 25 (east from the historical area (about 10 min. walk) and close to the train station), ☎+7-(4922)-32-37-95, 32-45-04. A nice mini-hotel close to the city centre. Breakfast included, free parking. Still, no other facilities available.edit

Profkursy (Профкурсы), Добросельская ул., 217 (eastern part of the city, very far from the historical area: take trolleybus #1 from the Golden Gate), ☎+7-(4922)-21-37-60. An old and ugly hotel in the outskirts of Vladimir (entry from Nizhny Novgorod). The only advantage is the proximity to Bogolyubovo. No parking.edit

Vladimir courtyard (Владимирскийдворик), ул. Подбельского, 12 (in the historical area, south from the Cathedral square), ☎+7-(4922)-32-71-06, 32-36-53, [30]. A nice mini-hotel in the centre of Vladimir. The rooms are modern and fully equipped. Breakfast included, parking available. Internet access in the lobby.Double room: 3000 rubles. edit

At the Golden Gate (УЗолотыхворот), Большая Московская ул., 15 (in the historical area, close to the Golden Gate), ☎+7-(4922)-42-08-23, [31]. A modern mini-hotel located in the old buidling in the very heart of Vladimir. Breakfast included, parking available. A restaurant is attached to the hotel.Double room: 3500 rubles. edit

Gladiator (Гладиатор), ул. Зелёная, 17 (микрорайон Коммунар) (leave Vladimir towards Murom and turn left after the hotel Klyazma), ☎+7-(4922)-42-51-79 (vgladiator@yandex.ru), [35]. A modern hotel in the outskirts of the city. Services include a restaurant, a sauna, and a sport club.Double room: from 1200 rubles. edit

Klyazma (Клязьма), Судогдское шоссе, 15 (on the road to Murom), ☎+7-(4922)-32-64-83, 32-42-37. The hotel in the outskirts of the city. Regular rooms are very old and basic, while the suites were recently renovated. Breakfast included, parking available for additional price. A cafe is attached to the hotel.Double room (non-renovated/renovated): 1400/3000 rubles. edit

Ladoga (Турбаза "Ладога"), Сосновая ул. 12 (leave the city towards Murom and turn left to Lunevo), ☎+7-(4922)-32-26-10 (tbladoga@mail.ru). A country house that offers the rental of rooms and cottages. There is a dining-hall serving three meals a day. Extra facilities (billiard, sauna, rental of sport equipment) available.Double room: 1200 rubles. edit

Motel Yamschik (Мотель "Ямщик"), ул. Ясная, 1 (микрорайон Юрьевец) (west from the city, on the road to Moscow), ☎+7-(4922)-26-35-55. Accommodation with either private or shared bathrooms. A tavern is attached to the hotel, and a sauna is available.Double room: 700-800 rubles. edit

From Vladimir, you can easily reach any place in Vladimir Oblast, and the trip should not take more that 3-3.5 hours. Below, the nearest destinations are listed:

Bogolyubovo – a village near Vladimir with remarkable white-stone monuments from 12th century. The must-see destination for any traveller coming to Vladimir.

Suzdal – the pretty, but quaint, world heritage site. Suzdal supplements Vladimir in the UNESCO list and presents lots of architectural sights from 13th-17th centuries.

Yuryev-Polsky – another part of the Golden Ring, a very provincial town with a nice and unusual white-stone cathedral dating back to 13th century.

Gus-Khrustalny – the town at the crystal factory. The local crystalware is really remarkable and compares to the international brands. Additionally, the town is a gateway to one of the few active networks of narrow-gauge railways in Central Russia.

Vyazniki – a remarkable town with several ancient churches, interesting secular buildings, and a really splendid viewpoint on the hill above the Klyazma river. Vyazniki is close to Mstyora, a famous region of handicrafts, including miniature painting and magnificent emroidery.

Sudogda – some people say that this is one of the most typical provinical towns in Central Russia. Sudogda preserves the complex of provincial buildings from 19th century and sufficiently reflects the present state of Russian province.

Kovrov – an industrial area and the second largest city of Vladimir region. Kovrov does not have any popular tourist attractions, but a number of buildings from late 19th – early 20th century are remarkable.

Lakinsk and Sobinka – small industrial towns to the west from Vladimir with several notable buildings from late 19th – early 20th century.